"I want to ensure that voices from every part of our community are heard and respected."
"--- Joseph Quintana
In the recently concluded filing period for the LAUSD School Board primary in June, Joseph Quintana was one of the entrants whose candidacy had not been previously announced. Quintana, who describes himself as "a Native American community advocate, nonprofit leader, and education and workforce development collaborator," is running in Board District 2 against incumbent Roc-o Rivas and Raquel Zamora.
As with all candidates for whom contact information is available, Quintana received six questions intended to help him introduce himself to voters. Below is the full text of his unedited responses:
Q. What is your current occupation?
I currently work as a leader of a nonprofit organization and have worked on issues like community-focused education and workforce development, with a background in advocacy, philanthropy, partnership development, curriculum development, and program design. My work centers on expanding access to education, supporting educators, and creating pathways that help young people and families succeed, especially those who have historically been overlooked.
Q. Do you or have you ever worked for the LAUSD? If yes, in what position(s)?
I have not been an employee of LAUSD. However, I have worked closely alongside educators across the state, administrators, and school partners on curriculum development, lesson planning, and educational initiatives, particularly around civil rights education, culturally relevant learning, and student engagement.
Q. Do you have any children currently enrolled in the LAUSD? Any graduates of the District?
(No answer received)
Q. Why are you running?
I am running because I believe service is both a responsibility and a privilege. Like many people, I want to make a difference, but more importantly, I want to ensure that voices from every part of our community are heard and respected.
I grew up in poverty, and public school changed the trajectory of my life. It gave me access to an education, sports, mentors, lifelong friendships, the arts, leadership, and public speaking opportunities, and the preparation I needed for college and public service. At the same time, I know the frustration of reaching out for help, sending emails, making calls, and not receiving responses on issues that deeply affect our communities and our children.
At a certain point in life, experience and education become tools for service. I'm running to use what I've learned to advocate for families, educators, and students, especially those who feel unseen or unheard, and to help prepare the next generation not just to graduate, but to lead. Our future depends on whether we prepare young people not just academically, but also personally and emotionally. Every student deserves to feel invested in, to have confidence in themselves, and to know there is dignity in whatever they aspire to become.
Q. Do you have any thoughts about how the LAUSD provides Special Education services?
I am a strong and unapologetic supporter of Special Education services. Supporting a child with special needs is already overwhelming for families, and navigating IEPs, services, and classroom supports should not add unnecessary stress.
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